Homeowners often choose asphalt driveways because they are highly durable and require minimal maintenance; with proper care, these driveways can last for decades. However, sealing the driveway is a critical maintenance task that is often overlooked.
Sealing your asphalt surface involves applying a protective layer that shields it from rainwater, sunlight, and chemicals such as gasoline and oil. This process helps prolong the lifespan of your driveway and also makes it more visually appealing.
But, when is it too late to seal a driveway? The answer is not straightforward and depends on several factors. However, in general, the earlier you seal your driveway, the better. Here, we’ll discuss the various factors that determine when it’s difficult or even impossible to seal your driveway.
Age Of The Driveway
To determine if it’s too late to seal your driveway, the age of the driveway is an important factor to consider. It is recommended to seal your driveway within the first year of installation when the asphalt has fully cured and settled. While sealing can still be done after the first year, it becomes more difficult the longer you wait.
Even if your driveway is not new, it is still possible to seal it. However, you should be aware that it may be more difficult, and the outcome might not be as good as when sealing a new driveway. As the asphalt gets older, it becomes harder and more fragile, making it more challenging for the sealant to adhere properly.
Extent Of Damage
It is important to take into account how much damage has been done to the driveway. If there are just small cracks or surface issues, these can typically be fixed with sealant. However, if the damage is more severe and widespread, simply sealing the driveway may not be enough. In such situations, you may need to completely repave the entire driveway.
For example, if your driveway has large potholes or deep cracks, it’s recommended that you repave. Sealing a damaged driveway will not only be ineffective, but it can also lead to further damage, requiring more extensive repairs later.
Weather Conditions
Weather conditions play a critical role in driveway sealing. Optimal weather conditions for sealing are dry weather with moderate temperatures. The moisture content in the air should also be low. Applying sealant in humid or damp conditions can lead to poor adhesion and bonding between the asphalt and the sealant.
Similarly, applying sealant in extremely cold temperatures can lead to cracking and lifting, which can compromise the integrity of the driveway. Therefore, if your region experiences extreme temperatures or erratic weather, it’s essential to plan sealing around the most optimal weather conditions.
Previous Sealing
If you’ve previously sealed your driveway, you’ll need to consider the type of sealant used and the frequency of application. Most sealants can last up to five years, after which they start degrading and losing their effectiveness. If you’ve previously applied sealant on your driveway, you must ensure that the previous layer is entirely removed before applying a new coat.
Failure to remove previous sealant can lead to layering and cracking, compromising the integrity of the driveway. In such cases, the driveway may require extensive repairs before resealing can occur.
Hiring A Professional
Sealing driveways can be a time-consuming and delicate process that requires specialized skills and equipment. As such, it’s crucial to hire a professional contractor for sealing your driveway. A professional contractor will evaluate the condition of your driveway and advise you on whether sealing is a viable option. They’ll also handle all the preparation work, including cleaning and repairing the driveway, to ensure that the sealant adheres correctly.
We recommend you to contact Greenfield Pavement Coatings in Clarksville, TN today as they have a team of professionals that can help you seal your driveway. They offer quality services at competitive rates, and their team is highly experienced in sealing driveways.
If you’re looking to get the best results from your driveway sealing project, hiring Greenfield Pavement Coatings is the way to go. With their expertise, they’ll ensure that your driveway is sealed correctly, giving you maximum value for your money.
Contact them today and get the best quality services at an affordable rate. Surely, they’ll be glad to help you with all your driveway sealing needs.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, sealing your driveway is an essential aspect of maintenance that ensures its longevity and enhances its visual appeal. Although sealing can be done on a driveway of any age, the earlier it’s done, the better. The age of the driveway, extent of damage, weather conditions, previous sealing, and hiring a professional are all crucial factors to consider when deciding whether it’s too late to seal your driveway.
If you’re unsure about the best course of action for your driveway, it’s always best to consult with a professional contractor who can guide you through the process and advise on what the best solution would be for your specific situation.
